AEK Athens drops the Cyriel Dessers pursuit? | OneFootball

The Greek champions are prioritizing other tactical targets this summer despite strong interest in the Nigerian forward.

Cyriel Dessers

AEK Athens' management might be stepping back from signing Cyriel Dessers this summer. The Greek club, which had shown serious intent in recent weeks to land the Nigerian striker from Rangers of Glasgow, now appears to be focusing on alternative targets.

For several days, talks had been ongoing between AEK Athens representatives and Rangers, with a transfer fee in the region of €5 million reportedly discussed for the forward. Both Greek and British media even reported a meeting between the Greek club's sporting director, Sasha Ilic, and Cyriel Dessers' camp.

However, disagreements over sporting and financial terms now seem to be pushing AEK to walk away. The latest comments from the Greek club's coach suggest that the deal might be shelved, as a new striker is not considered an urgent need. Asked about the stalled arrival of Dessers, head coach Marko Nikolic replied:

As for Rangers, the club has made it clear they won't let their striker go for a bargain price. Meanwhile, Feyenoord have reignited their interest in the Nigerian, a player they know well from his previous spell at the club. This revived option could present a more plausible exit route for the forward, who netted 18 goals in the Scottish Premiership this season.